Downtown Tucson Partnership Safety Initiative, “Together Tucson”, Reducing Nightlife Violence, Enters Second Year
Area Business Participation Grows
TUCSON, Ariz. (April 23, 2026) — A downtown Tucson nightlife safety program, initiated last year by three venues, enters its second summer. Nightlife businesses report a reduction in fights and disruptive incidents, as well as increased interest from additional venues and bars.
The initiative, called “Together Tucson,” was established by HighWire, Chela’s Latin Cuisine and Cobra Arcade Bar to address violence, harassment and unsafe behavior in and around their establishments. Before admittance, guests have their IDs scanned and photos taken at participating venues using handheld devices linked across locations. A customer is banned for committing infractions such as fighting, intoxicated behavior or disrespecting staff, that information is shared in real time, preventing entry across all participating venues.
“This is about creating an environment where people can enjoy a night out without worrying about violence,” said Crystal Moore, president and CEO of the Downtown Tucson Partnership. “When businesses work together, it supports both safety for their customers and the overall downtown experience.”
“We’re all dealing with the same issues, so it made sense to approach it together,” said Nick Wayne, owner of Highwire. “If someone is causing problems in one place, they’re usually not stopping there. This gives us a way to stay ahead of that.”
Since launching in March 2025, nightlife operators report a measurable decline in incidents and a shift in guest behavior. At least 20 individuals have been banned across the network, with penalties ranging from temporary suspensions to permanent bans.
Each scanner costs approximately $1,000, with Rio Nuevo, a state-authorized tax increment finance district that reinvests a portion of sales tax revenue into downtown development, contributing $500 per unit to offset costs. Participating businesses cover the remaining balance and ongoing system fees.
The program includes a reinstatement process for individuals who have been banned. Those seeking reentry may apply using a QR code posted at participating venues and must demonstrate accountability before being considered.
At last month’s meeting, 13 individuals requested reinstatement. One was conditionally approved, with the option to either make a $200 donation to a downtown school or complete 10 hours of community service with a nonprofit. Eligibility for reentry would begin six months after completing one of those requirements.
Participating businesses meet monthly to review incidents and are working to expand the network. Additional area businesses throughout downtown, including Fourth Avenue, Main Gate and Mercado districts, have expressed interest in joining. As the program grows, operators aim to bring more nightlife establishments into the network, noting that banned individuals have begun shifting to non-participating venues, where incidents have continued.
“Together Tucson” is supported by the Downtown Tucson Partnership and coordinated with the Tucson Police Department to promote a safe and welcoming downtown for all.
About Downtown Tucson Partnership
Founded in 1998, the Downtown Tucson Partnership (DTP) is a nonprofit organization that manages and markets the Downtown Tucson Business Improvement District, supporting the property owners, businesses, and residents who make up downtown. The district spans 54 blocks in downtown Tucson’s heart, centered on Congress and Stone Avenues. Funded primarily through a stakeholder-approved property assessment, DTP provides enhanced safety, cleaning, marketing, economic development, and placemaking services designed to strengthen downtown’s role as Southern Arizona’s civic and economic center. Learn more at downtowntucson.org and follow DTP on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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For further information, please contact
Brian Garrido
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